Introduction
Many studies have been carried out in recent decades
regarding lamb meat characteristics. The overwhelming
majority have used instrumental methods (physical or
chemical ones) and, to a lesser extent, sensory analyses
with a taste panel. Very few studies have considered consumer
appraisal and preference by eating lamb meat.
This could be because consumer studies are difficult,
expensive and require a team with a high level of training
and coordination and many participants (from both
sexes, a wide range of ages, different occupations, etc.)
to obtain representative data. However, despite all the
difficulties, consumer preferences are unquestionably
one of the main factors that determine purchase tendencies
(Herna´ndez-Gimeno, 2002) and their expectations
and perceptions can be used as a very good tool to improve
meat quality (Issanchou, 1996). Therefore, studies
about the appraisal of sensory characteristics of lamb
meat by consumers are essential.